An ingrown hair occurs when a single hair grows up out of a follicle and then loops back, reentering the skin. Ingrown hairs typically occur after shaving, plucking or waxing. Although they can develop anywhere hair is removed, Dr. Mary Stone of the University of Iowa says that they commonly occur on the upper thighs. Fortunately, there are several cures for ingrown hairs, many that can be used in the privacy of your own bathroom.
Cortisone Cream
"The Doctors Book of Home Remedies for Women" suggests applying cortisone cream on ingrown hairs. Hydrocortisone creams, such as Cortaid, can be purchased at most drug and grocery stores. They can help soothe inflammation of an overgrown hair as well as quicken healing time.
Tweezers
Tweezers can be used to safely remove ingrown hairs. "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies" recommends applying a warm, damp washcloth to the ingrown hair for a few minutes. This will help soften the hair and skin. With a pair of clean tweezers, pluck out the ingrown hair. If you can't actually see the ingrown hair, do not pick or squeeze at the skin to get it out. Instead, apply a warm compress until the hair is visible. Once the offending hair is removed, follow up with an antiseptic such as rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide to prevent infection.
Topical Medications
For persistent, recurring ingrown hairs that do not respond to home remedies, a doctor may be able to prescribe a treatment. Retinoids, a medicated cream that works by exfoliating the surface skin, also helps diminish the skin discoloration that often occurs as a result of ingrown hairs. A doctor may also choose to prescribe corticosteroids, a topical steroid treatment that reduces inflammation. In addition, topical or oral antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection that can sometimes result in ingrown hairs.
Prevention
The Mayo Clinic explains that one of the best ways to cure ingrown hairs is to prevent them. Never dry shave. Instead, always use warm water and a lubricating shaving gel or cream. Make sure the razor blade is sharp---consider the use of a disposable razor so it can be tossed as soon as dullness develops. Shave gently, without pulling or tugging at the skin, in the direction the hair grows. When done shaving, press a cool compress against the shaved area to calm the skin. If shaving is creating ingrown hairs, try a different hair removal method like a chemical hair remover.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Ingrown hair
- "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies"; Prevention Magazine Editors; 1991
- "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies for Women"; Sharon Faelten; 1997
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